Tokayev Explores Kazakh-Chinese Cooperation and SCO Goals in Xinhua Interview
ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in urging the international community to engage in an honest and open global dialogue. In an interview with Xinhua on July 1, President Tokayev outlined the key priorities for the summit, including adopting a new security paradigm, creating a fair economic environment, and taking steps to maintain the planet’s cleanliness.
During the interview, President Tokayev also highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Kazakhstan and China, noting the historic visit of President Xi Jinping to Kazakhstan in 2022. This visit marked the beginning of a new “golden 30th anniversary” of cooperation between the two countries.
President Tokayev expressed his support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the concept of a community with a common destiny for humankind proposed by President Xi Jinping. He emphasized the need for deepening multifaceted relations and increasing mutual trade turnover to $100 billion between Kazakhstan and China.
In addition to economic cooperation, President Tokayev underscored the importance of transport cooperation and cultural ties between Kazakhstan and China. He highlighted ongoing projects in railway construction and the promotion of mutual understanding through initiatives such as the visa-free regime and cultural exchanges.
As Kazakhstan assumes the chairmanship of the SCO, President Tokayev outlined the country’s priorities, which include addressing security issues, enhancing trade and economic cooperation, and promoting environmental protection. The upcoming SCO Summit in Astana is expected to focus on strengthening the organization’s international authority and developing initiatives to respond to current challenges and threats.
Furthermore, Kazakhstan has declared 2024 as the SCO Year of Ecology, with a focus on environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation. President Tokayev emphasized the importance of cooperation and dialogue in achieving shared goals for sustainable development and prosperity within the SCO framework.
Overall, President Tokayev’s remarks highlight Kazakhstan’s commitment to promoting international cooperation, strengthening partnerships, and addressing key global challenges through the platform of the SCO. The upcoming summit in Astana presents an opportunity for SCO member states to reaffirm their commitment to the organization’s fundamental principles and work towards a more secure and prosperous future for all.
